A group of health conditions that negatively affect the ability to speak is called language disorders. There are multiple forms of language disorders that negatively affect one’s ability to use or understand language. In most cases, these disorders improve with speech therapy.
In other words, a language disorder causes difficulties in using or understanding language for you or your child. While some people have problems with using words to share their feelings and thoughts, others may have problems with understanding the words other people say. Furthermore, language disorders can be present at birth (congenital) or develop during the lifetime (acquired language disorders). Thus, the symptoms can be present in early childhood or later if you or your child has a brain injury or a disorder that affects their ability to speak. Commonly, language disorders are lifelong, but the symptoms can improve with speech therapy.
Generally, language disorders occur commonly and affect about 1 in 20 children in the U.S. These children may also have other health conditions (such as deafness, autism spectrum disorder, and others) that also impact the child’s ability to communicate.
Types of Language Disorders
Physicians have divided these disorders into 2 categories. In rare cases, people can develop both types at the same time. These include:
- Expressive language disorder – This form of the condition causes difficulty using words. It often looks like your child does not know what words to use or how to put them together.
- Receptive language disorder – In this case, children have difficulty understanding what other people say. They may also feel anxious about interacting with other people because they do not fully understand what they are talking about.
What Are The Symptoms of Language Disorders?
The symptoms are usually different among people with language disorders. They depend on the cause, type, and severity of the disease. In general, the symptoms of these conditions include problems with using and understanding language. For example:
Problems Using Language
- Difficulty finding the right words
- Repeating common words or phrases
- Making up new words
- Limited vocabulary for age
- Avoiding social interactions
- Using single words or short, simple sentences and phrases
- Avoiding social interactions
- They also use the same phrases over and over
Problems Understanding Language
For example:
- Difficulty understanding jokes or taking them literally
- Seeming shy or withdrawn
- Difficulty following directions
- Missing details of conversations
- Misinterpreting what other people say
- Taking things the wrong way
- Difficulties with concentration and focusing, especially when other people are talking
If you or your child has any of the previous symptoms, immediately contact a healthcare professional.
Causes and Risk Factors
Commonly, language disorders occur in different ways. These include:
- Congenital language disorder – In this case, the disorder is present at birth. Sometimes, it is called a developmental language disorder, and usually it happens for unknown reasons.
- Acquired language disorder – Some people may develop a language disorder as a complication of a mental disorder. For instance, it may happen due to a brain injury, Alzheimer’s disease, and others. One example of an acquired language disorder is aphasia.
While anyone can develop these disorders, there are some factors that could elevate your risk. Examples include:
- Prematurity and low birth weight
- Sex – Men are more prone to language disorders compared to females.
- Neurodevelopmental and genetic disorders – For example, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Down syndrome, or Williams’s syndrome can cause language disorders.
- Environmental factors – These include low maternal education, low socioeconomic status, lack of stimulating interactions, and others.
- Neurological and physical disorders – These include chronic (long-term) ear infections, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, brain injuries, and others.
What Are The Potential Complications of Language Disorders?
Those who develop language disorders may also experience some complications, especially if the disorder is left untreated. Check some examples below:
- Emotional and social challenges – Children with language disorders often feel shy, withdrawn, or frustrated due to their inability to express themselves.
- Behavioral problems – These include poor behavior, aggression, inattention, and others.
- Academic issues – Children with language disorders usually have problems with reading, writing, and understanding the school curriculum.
- Mental disorders – For example, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and others.
The previous list does not contain a complete list of complications, but you can talk with your doctor about ways to reduce the risk or manage them.
Diagnosis
First, doctors will perform a physical examination to check for irregularities linked to the disease. During this procedure, they will check for other health conditions (such as hearing loss) that may cause a language disorder. When they suspect these disorders, you can be referred to an audiologist or a speech-language pathologist (SLP) for further testing.
Treatment
Generally, there are no specific treatments for language disorders. SLPs often prescribe treatment based on your child’s specific needs. Examples include:
- Congenital language disorder – For instance, if your 3-year-old child has the expressive form of language disorders, therapists will recommend specific exercises and techniques to help them improve the ability to use words and sentences.
- Acquired language disorder – In this case, physicians usually prescribe treatments for the underlying condition and therapies that help with the ability to use words and speak. Sometimes, they may also recommend alternatives, including apps on computer tablets, speech-generating devices, and others.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a speech and language disorder?
While a language disorder causes difficulties with using words, people with speech disorders cannot make sounds. Some people can develop both disorders at the same time.
What are the most common language disorders?
These include developmental language disorder (DLD), aphasia, and expressive language disorder. For more details, discuss it with your doctor.
Is ADHD a type of language disorder?
While attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is not classified as a language disorder, people who develop it often experience language difficulties. If you have any other questions, ask your healthcare provider.
